Writers on Track features Edmonton-based singer-rapper 80purppp with Sony Music Publishing Canada. He first broke out in 2018 with his single “Hex” and has continued to evolve his sound with the 2025 release of Suite 96, a deeply personal project split into Side A and Side B that reflects his artistic climb. Blending R&B and contemporary rap with an unmistakable sense of earnestness, his sound continues to evolve.
What’s your favourite part of the songwriting process?
When I write music I go through a lot of sounds and beats in a session to hear what I’m feeling. My favourite part of the songwriting process has to be that once in a 15-20 song feeling I get when a sound or beat is pulling on my spirit so firmly that I feel justified in my very existence. It’s like “I was born to work with this” or “my purpose right now, is to chip away at this stone”.
What’s your biggest session highlight so far?
Biggest session highlight so far might be working with Jungle Boi and Signal in Lagos Nigeria. I got to try making some Amapiano stuff, which I always felt was out of reach. Working with Winny was so dope too, she’s fire. Producer David Dyson as well. I’m looking forward to releasing some of the many tracks I worked on out there soon in the new year.
How much do current market and track trends impact your creative process?
I try not to let it impact my process too much, in the sense that the “market” on that macro scale many refer to it on doesn’t function the same way on the micro. My job is, has been, and will be the same as long as I decide to work in the creative space. The times where I’ve made the most impactful music, are the times I’m thinking least of the “market” and thinking most about the work, what I want to say, etc. I wish more creatives would feel this way. Not thinking this way is a luxury when the pendulum is swinging towards you, but when you feel forced between authenticity and what the market is asking of you: that’s when we find out who the real artists are.
Listen to 80purppp on Amazon Music, Apple Music, SoundCloud, and Spotify.
